Hill:
Beinn
Donachain (Bad or Evil mountain)
Type:
Graham
Height:
650m
It
was Plan B today. The forecast was for cloud not rising above 600m,
strong winds and drizzle. So not the high tops that I planned to do,
never mind they will still be there if I get around to them.
It
was also my second attempt on this top. Last month I chose to not
attempt the burn crossing. Then it was in full spate, had doubled in
width and considerably deeper so wet feet were guaranteed, I opted
against.
Today
hoping for the crossing to be lower I parked up at the
falls to follow the forest track which
also takes you to the Corbett
Beinn Mhic
Mhonaidh.
A
long up and down wooded walk is the start in slight drizzle, it was
already humid and my light wet gear was already making me sweat.
I
reached the lovely glade with
a picnic bench; I
wonder how often it gets used. The grass was alive with Meadow Brown
butterflies.
There
is a sign and track to
the went on
to the newish woodland
reserve. Bit
boggy at times and then the burn was reached. As hoped the water was
lower and I got across with only one foot properly under water.
The
woodland track takes you to another gate which appears to be linked
to a deer fence. The track gains height as it continues through the
trees but quite heavy bracken encroaching onto the track. Starting to
get annoyed by the beasties in this humidity. Jays were going nuts
screeching loudly, I counted at least 4 calling and apart from one
bursting between two trees the remained well hidden. I wonder if a
predator was around.
The
track seemed to go on forever but at least it was rising.
 |
| Scotch Argus |
Scotch Argus were everywhere. I reached a
junction but the tree depth and horrible terrain discouraged me from
a direct ascent. Instead, I followed the track left right up to the
end of the treeline, much easier. Spooked some hinds. There had been
plenty of scat on the trail, most looked like fresh pine martin scat.
But there were two fresh black deposits, very large, more dog like so
maybe a fox?
This
had taken longer than expected and the hill was still some way away
across pathless moorland. I had not anticipated the significant ups
and downs on this section. A steep climb got me to a plateau and when
I got to the end I despaired as I looked down over Heart Loch. I
could also see more undulations to come, the joys. I could have given
up a few times today, my heart was not really in it. So
up and down across a bog with a few deep hags to test as well.  |
| Bog Asphodel brought colour to the slopes |
 |
| Thats the top but first the fence |
Then I
reached the deer fence. The wiring was loose and I did not really
fancy climbing. Behind sat the hill with its final steep ascent to
the finish. I walked left no gate. I walked right still no sign, so I
climbed a hummock to get a better look. Further on I spotted what
looked like a stile. It turned out to have a few slats missing so
became a body twisting obstacle exercise, I was getting fed up with
this walk.
 |
| View from top towards the Orchy Munros |
 |
| Start of descent |
A
steep slippery grassy slope got me to the top where a small cairn
marks the spot. Not a great view as the rain had come on, the clouds
had lowered so it was time to get back by the same route. The drizzle
and beasties also accompanied me back. |
| View down Glen Orchy, taken on way up before the rain came on |
The final few miles of hard
track walking, with its many rises and falls, I could have seen far
enough. Plus both boots had started to rub, no doubt some lost skin
to deal with. It was a big hill considering it started at almost sea
level with its many ups and downs much more ascent than a normal
Graham more like a Corbett walk.
Still back at the car damp on
the outside and inside and I had not brought a change of clothing.
The box has been ticked and I cannot see a return visit being made.
A
shower and a cold beer will be very welcome.
Ascent:
785m
Distance:
14.9km
Time:
4.50
Wildlife:
Red deer (hind); Meadow Brown; Jay; Chaffinch; Scotch Argus; Meadow
Pipit; Common Frog
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